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New forensic venture to help out the poor

To provide scientific investigation and detection services using modern techniques

To make available free service to the poor and also in cases of public interest

NEW DELHI: Truth Labs, a unique initiative to provide private and independent forensic laboratory services at nominal rates to help victims of crime and injustice, will open its branch in the Capital soon.

Conceived by K.P.C. Gandhi, former director of the Andhra Pradesh Forensic Science Laboratory, Truth Labs was first established in Hyderabad in 2007 with the aim of providing scientific investigation and detection services using modern tools and techniques. “It has been set up to cater to the demands of the common man requiring scientific services to resolve a number of civil, criminal, regulatory or non-litigious disputes,” said Dr. Gandhi.

Truth Labs promises to provide free service to the poor and the under-privileged and also in cases of public interest.

The services include investigations into authenticity of documents through various techniques like examination of handwriting and signatures. The lab carries out fingerprint analysis, investigates cyber crime offences and does psychological evaluation and behavioural profiling. It also offers “failure analysis” service that involves investigation of the premature failure of any structure resulting in loss of life or damage to public property.

“The opinion and reports given by the experts of Truth Labs are valid in the court of law as per Section 45 of the Indian Evidence Act,” said Dr. Gandhi, adding that the lab had roped in highly qualified, experienced, certified and skilled professionals in their area of expertise. They include experts who retired from the Central and State government forensic laboratories.

The Delhi branch at Bhikaji Cama Place is scheduled to become functional in June. It will be headed by S. R. Singh, former director of the Central Forensic Science Laboratory of the Central Bureau of Investigation.

Dr. Gandhi said the Hyderabad-based Truth Labs had received over 300 cases so far and even courts were referring cases to the lab. “The lab has received over 100 cases from courts and about 50 from the police. In fact, several cases have been reopened on the basis of our reports,” he said, adding that a large number of individuals and reputed companies had also availed of its services. “In urgent and deserving cases Truth Labs can furnish reports within 24 hours,” said Dr. Gandhi.